Human Sexuality

Let’s Talk About

♀

SEX

♂

1. What is Human Sexuality? 2. Male & Female Anatomy 3. Physiology & Sexual Response

4. Love & Attraction 5. Relationships, Communication & Intimacy

6. Sexual Orientation & Atypical Behavior 7. STIs 8. Conception, Pregnancy & Childbirth 9. Birth Control 10.Sexual Coercion & Assault (SACE)

What is Human Sexuality?

Make-up Of An Individual’s Unique Sexual Being:

o o o o o

physical psychological social cultural spiritual

Five Features of Sexuality:

o o o o o

Sensuality Intimacy Sexual Identity Reproduction Sexualization

SENSUALITY awareness and acceptance of our own body

o o o o o o

knowledge of anatomy & physiology understanding sexual response body image satisfaction of skin hunger attraction template fantasy

INTIMACY experiencing emotional closeness to another

o o o o o

caring sharing risk taking vulnerability self disclosure

SEXUAL IDENTITY process of discovering who we are in terms of sexuality

o o o o o o

gender roles orientation self esteem & confidence level relationships with family & friends roles as child & adult perception of self as male/female

REPRODUCTION values, attitudes & behaviors relating to reproduction

o o o o o

contraception & fertility issues lifestyles STIs (including AIDS) anatomy & physiology morality issues

SEXUALIZATION use of sexuality to influence, control or manipulate

o o o o o o

style of dress appearance & body language advertising movies, talk shows & media harassment & sexual assault paraphilias (voyeurism, exhibitionism…)

Values… VALUES: the qualities in life which are deemed important or unimportant, right or wrong, desirable or undesirable MORAL VALUES: relate to our conduct with and treatment of other people, more than just right or wrong, looks at the whole picture

Values… SEXUAL MORAL VALUES: relate to the rightness and wrongness of sexual conduct and when and how sexuality should be expressed SOURCES OF SEXUAL VALUES: we acquire our sexual values from our social environment

Research Founders… SIGMUND FREUD (1856-1939) Austrian physician Personality theory based on sex drive as our principle motivating force

Research Founders… ALFRED KINSEY (1894-1956): American zoologist First comprehensive survey ~ interviewed 12,000 subjects

Research Founders… WILLIAM MASTERS & VIRGINIA JOHNSON (1960s): Lab observations of 700 subjects to study human sexual response stages

Female Anatomy

MONS VENERIS:  fatty tissue that covers the joint of the pubic bones in front of the body, below the abdomen  cushions a woman’s body during sexual intercourse, protecting her and her partner from the pressure against the pubic bone

LABIA MAJORA:  large folds of skin that run downward from the mons along the sides of the vulva  amply supplied with nerve endings that respond to stimulation  shield the inner portions of the female genitals

LABIA MINORA:  hairless, light colored membranes located between the labia majora  they surround the urethral and vaginal opening  at the top, they join at the hood of the clitoris  highly sensitive to sexual stimulation  darken and swell when stimulated

CLITORIS:  female sex organ located above the urethral opening  serves no known function other than sexual pleasure

PREPUCE:  “hood” that covers the clitoris

URETHRAL OPENING:  opening through which urine passes from the female’s body VAGINAL OPENING:  lies below and is larger than the urethral opening, covered by a hymen

HYMEN:  fold of tissue across the vaginal opening that is usually present at birth and remains at least partially intact until a woman engages in coitus PUBO COCCYGEUS MUSCLE:  muscles that encircle the entrance to the vagina (Kegel exercises)

VAGINA:

 usually 3 to 5 inches long  extends back and upward from the vaginal opening  menstrual flow and babies pass from the uterus through the vagina  during coitus, the penis is contained within the vagina

CERVIX:  is the lower end of the uterus  it’s walls, like the vagina, produce secretions that contribute to the chemical balance of the vagina  the opening in the middle of the cervix, called the os, is normally the width of a straw  os expands to permit passage of a baby during childbirth

UTERUS (aka WOMB):

 the organ in which a fertilized egg implants and develops until birth ENDOMETRIUM:  innermost layer of tissue which is discharged during menstruation  tissue may grow in the abdominal cavity or elsewhere ~ Endometriosis

OVARIES (2):  almond shaped organs, each about 1.5 inches long  produce egg cells (ova) and female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone

Male Anatomy

PENIS:  male organ of sexual intercourse  contains the opening through which semen and urine pass CORPUS CAVERNOSUM (2):

 cylinders of spongy tissue in the penis that become congested with blood and stiffen during sexual arousal

SCROTUM:  pouch of loose skin that becomes covered lightly with hair at puberty  consists of two compartments which hold the testes TESTES (2):  produce germ cells (sperm) and male sex hormone testosterone

TESTOSTERONE:  stimulates prenatal differentiation of male sex organs, sperm production and development of secondary sex characteristics (ex. beard, deep voice) VAS DEFERENS (2):  thin cylindrical tube about 16 inches long that serves as a conduit for sperm

SEMINAL VESICLES (2):  small glans each about 2 inches long  lie behind the bladder and open into the ejaculatory ducts, where the fluids they secrete combine with sperm  the fluid they produce nourishes sperm and helps them become active

PROSTATE GLAND:  lies beneath the bladder  contains muscle fibers and glandular tissue that secrete prostatic fluid which is milky and alkaline  provides the characteristic texture and odor of the seminal fluid  the alkalinity neutralizes some of the acidity of the vaginal tract, prolonging the life span of sperm as it passes through the female reproductive system

COWPER’S GLANDS (2):  lie below the prostate  empty their secretion into the urethra  during sexual arousal they secrete a drop or so of clear, slippery fluid that appears at the urethral opening

SEMEN:

 made up of fluids from the seminal vesicles, prostate gland and Cowper’s glands  about 70% of the ejaculate is secreted by the seminal vesicle  the other 30% consists of sperm and fluids from the prostate gland and Cowper’s gland  sperm only accounts for 1% of semen  ejaculate = 200 - 400 million sperm

Physiology & Sexual Response

MENSTRUAL CYCLE MENSTRUATION:  the cyclical bleeding that stems from the shedding of the uterine lining  humans ~ averages 28 days  regulated by estrogen & progesterone  ovulation may not occur each time  follows ovulation by 14 days (±2)

MENSTRUAL CYCLE MENARCHE:

 the onset of menstruation, the first period  the first few years of menstruation may be anovulatory (no ovulation)

MENSTRUAL CYCLE MENOPAUSE:

 

the cessation of menstruation commonly occurs between the ages of 45 & 50 and lasts 2 years  estrogen levels drop producing many unpleasant side effects (ex. night sweats, hot flashes)

MENSTRUAL CYCLE MAN-OPAUSE (?):

 men cannot undergo menopause because they have never menstruated  they can experience a gradual decline in testosterone levels but it is unlike the sharp decline of estrogen

MENSTRUAL CYCLE DYSMENORRHEA:  mild to severe pain or discomfort during menstruation  pelvic cramps, nausea, headaches, backaches, bloating

MENSTRUAL CYCLE PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (PMS):  symptoms that regularly afflict many women during the four to six days prior to menstruation each month  combination physical & psychological  ex. anxiety, depression, irritability, weight gain, abdominal pain

MENSTRUAL CYCLE SEX DURING MENSTRUATION:  no evidence that sex during menstruation is physically harmful  many couples continue to engage in sex while others abstain  may be helpful in relieving cramps by dispelling blood congestion

SEXUAL FUNCTIONS ERECTION:  the enlargement and stiffening of the penis as a consequence of filling with blood (a spinal reflex)  can double in length and become firm in a matter of 10-15 seconds  bladder closes off during arousal

SEXUAL FUNCTIONS EJACULATION:  expulsion of semen from tip of penis  a spinal reflex triggered when sexual stimulation reaches the threshold  often, but not always, occurs together with orgasm (subjective sensations)  occurs in two stages

SEXUAL FUNCTIONS STAGE 1 ~ EMISSION:  involves contractions of the prostate gland, seminal vesicles & vas deferens  forces seminal fluid into a small tube called the urethral bulb which closes at both ends, trapping the fluid

SEXUAL FUNCTIONS STAGE 2 ~ EXPULSION:  propulsion of seminal fluid through the urethra and out of the urethral opening at the tip of the penis  the muscles at the base of the penis contract rhythmically, expelling semen  usually accompanied by orgasm

SEXUAL FUNCTIONS RETROGRADE EJACULATION:  ejaculate empties into the bladder rather than being expelled  result is a dry orgasm  usually harmless as the semen is later expelled during urination but may have an underlying health risk cause

SEXUAL RESPONSE APHRODISIAC:

 a substance that arouses or increases one’s capacity for sexual pleasure  no foods have been shown to be sexually stimulating  Spanish Fly is a toxic irritant  basic fuel of desire = testosterone

SEXUAL RESPONSE PHEROMONES:  chemical substances secreted externally which are odorless  detected through a “sixth sense” triggering sexual behavior in many organisms  contained in vaginal secretions & urine

SEXUAL RESPONSE ORGASM:  the climax of sexual excitement  similar physiological response to sexual stimulation for men and women  described by Kaplan as a three-stage model of sexual response

KAPLAN’S MODEL STAGE 1 ~ DESIRE:  the drive & interest level for sexual activity which arises in the brain  testosterone is the key hormone for desire level in both men & women  strengthened by fantasy & stimulation

KAPLAN’S MODEL STAGE 2 ~ EXCITEMENT:  increased muscle tension, heart rate & blood pressure  women – engorged clitoris, labia & vagina, vaginal lubrication  men – penile erection, enlargement & elevation of testes, Cowper’s secretion

KAPLAN’S MODEL STAGE 3 ~ ORGASM:  involuntary muscle spasms throughout body, mostly in vagina & penis  blood pressure, heart rate & respiration peak  slightly longer duration for females

MASTURBATION  sexual self-stimulation either manual or with the aid of an artificial device such as a vibrator  physically & psychologically harmless  negative attitudes may be associated  reasons: relieve sexual tension, for physical pleasure, to relax, partner unavailable, to get to sleep…

LOVE & ATTRACTION

ATTRACTION minimal standards for attractiveness? beauty in the “eye of the beholder”? do men prefer big breasts? opposites attract? should I “put on a happy face”? what do you look for “long-term”? the “matching hypothesis”

ATTRACTION MINIMAL STANDARDS FOR ATTRACTIVENESS o sensitivity, warmth and intelligence ARE NOT more important to us o research shows that attractiveness is the key factor when choosing a partner

ATTRACTION “EYE OF THE BEHOLDER” o broad agreement among cultures that

we all want physically attractive partners o many men prefer women to be less slender than many women think o many men prefer a bust size smaller than what women think

ATTRACTION DO OPPOSITES ATTRACT? o we are drawn to those with similar attitudes, background & tastes o match made in the neighborhood, not in heaven o women place more value on similar attitude, men on physical attraction

ATTRACTION COME ON, SMILE  o a smile DOES make you more attractive o both genders rated a smiling photo more attractive than a non-smiling pose o more true for photos of women than photos of men

ATTRACTION LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIPS o physical attraction was rated lower for men

& women when discussing long-term relationship appeal o warmth, honesty, sensitivity & faithfulness ranked higher o single most important quality - HONESTY

ATTRACTION MATCHING HYPOTHESIS o who is “right” for you? o people tend to develop romantic relationships with people who are similar to themselves o motive for seeking matches seems to be fear of rejection by more appealing people

ATTRACTION TEMPLATE WHAT SOCIETY SAYS NICE IF SHOULD

MUST

LOVE STYLES OF LOVE ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

romantic love game-playing love friendship logical love possessive / excited love selfless love

LOVE ROMANTIC LOVE: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

lust similar to our concept of passion “my lover fits my ideal” “my lover & I were attracted to one another immediately”

LOVE GAME-PLAYING LOVE: ♥ the chase is most important ♥ “I get over affairs pretty easily” ♥ “I keep my lover up in the air about my commitment”

LOVE FRIENDSHIP: ♥ respect, intimacy ♥ loving attachment with nonsexual affection ♥ “the best love grows out of an enduring friendship”

LOVE LOGICAL LOVE: ♥ practical ♥ “I consider my lover’s potential in life before committing myself” ♥ “I consider whether my lover will be a good parent”

LOVE POSSESSIVE / EXCITED LOVE: ♥ passion ♥ “I get so excited about my love that I cannot sleep” ♥ “when my lover ignores me I get sick all over”

LOVE SELFLESS LOVE: ♥ similar to generosity & charity ♥ “I would do anything I can to help my lover” ♥ “my lover’s needs & wishes are more important than my own” ♥ unhealthy if only one partner

TRIANGULAR THEORY OF LOVE

THREE COMPONENTS OF LOVE INTIMACY: ♥ the experience of warmth toward another person that arises from feelings of closeness, bondedness & connectedness to the other PASSION: ♥ an intense romantic or sexual desire for another person, which is accompanied by physical arousal COMMITMENT / DECISION: ♥ a component of love that involves both short and long-term issues

(CONSUMMATE)

PASSION

NON LOVE

♥ all three components of love are absent ♥ Most of our personal relationships are of this type ♥ Casual acquaintances that do not involve any elements of love

LIKING= INTIMACY ONLY ♥ A loving experience with another person or friendship in which intimacy is present but passion & commitment are not

INFATUATION= PASSION ONLY ♥ Passionate, obsessive “love at first sight” without intimacy or commitment

EMPTY LOVE= COMMITMENT ONLY ♥ Decision to love each other without intimacy or passion ♥ Includes stagnant relationships that no longer involve emotional intimacy or physical attraction

ROMANTIC LOVE= INTIMACY & PASSION ♥ Lovers physically & emotionally attracted to each other but without commitment ♥ Includes a summer romance

COMPANIONATE LOVE= INTIMACY & COMMITMENT

♥ Long-term committed friendship such as a marriage in which the passion has faded

FATUOUS LOVE= PASSION & COMMITMENT ♥ Commitment based on passion but without the time for intimacy to develop ♥ Includes a “whirlwind courtship”

CONSUMMATE LOVE ♥ The full or complete measure of love ♥ Involving the combination of passion, intimacy & commitment / decision ♥ Many of us strive to achieve this love ♥ Maintaining this love is even more difficult than achieving it

INTIMACY RELATIONSHIPS & COMMUNICATION

A COUPLE’S JOURNEY ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ HOW A RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPS

♫ the road is long…♪ FIVE STAGES ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

ROMANCE POWER STRUGGLE STABILITY COMMITMENT CO-CREATION

COUPLE’S JOURNEY ROMANCE ♥ we sense our possibilities & create a shared vision

COUPLE’S JOURNEY POWER STRUGGLE ♥ we learn to recognize and validate differing needs and perceptions ♥ we learn to say who we are & what we want ♥ should be symmetrical, parallel, complimentary

COUPLE’S JOURNEY STABILITY ♥ learn to take responsibility & expand our senses of identity through dialogue with each other ♥ our differences are OK ♥ we each have our strengths

COUPLE’S JOURNEY COMMITMENT ♥ experience ourselves as interdependent ~ “we” ♥ learn to live with impossibility & unsolvable problems

MYTHS OF LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIPS ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Relationships will make you feel complete Your partner should change for you if s/he really loves you If you truly love each other, romance should continue Your partner should understand you Any differences should always be settled In a good relationship, you have identical dreams & goals A relationship must be stable in order to be healthy The more open you are with your partner, the more satisfying the relationship will be ♥ If you are not fulfilled, your relationship must be at fault ♥ Sexual disinterest is inevitable in a long-term relationship

HOW MARRIED PEOPLE MET THEIR PARTNER (MICHAEL ET AL., 1994)

13

5

Self Introductions 35

15 32

M utual Friends

Family M embers

Co-w orkers, Classmates or Neighbors Other

 JEALOUSY  ♥ “the green-ey’d monster” – Shakespeare ♥ evidence of jealousy in all cultures ♥ can impair a relationship by producing feelings of mistrust or possessiveness ♥ fear of losing the loved one, anger ♥ may lead to depression, spousal abuse, suicide or even murder ♥ in mild forms, can reveal how much you care

 JEALOUSY  ♥ may derive from low self-esteem ♥ these people are often overly dependent on their partner ♥ fear that they will not find another partner ♥ for women, feelings of inadequacy lead to feelings of jealousy ♥ for men, jealousy leads to inadequacy ♥ can lead to perceiving anyone as a rival

 JEALOUSY  ♥ unfortunately, many lovers play games ♥ they let their partner know they are attracted to other people ♥ they flirt openly with others ♥ they may make up stories to get more attention from their partner, to inflict pain, or to take revenge

LONELINESS ♥ many people experience loneliness, sometimes even in a relationship ♥ loneliness can cause depression, anxiety & withdrawal from social activities ♥ lonely people tend to have several of the following characteristics:

LONELY PEOPLE ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

lack of social skills lack of interest in other people lack of empathy fear of rejection failure to disclose personal information to potential friends ♥ cynical about human nature ♥ demanding too much too soon ♥ general pessimism

REDUCE LONELINESS CHALLENGE FEELINGS OF PESSIMISM ♥ adopt the attitude that things happen for you when you make them happen ♥ make a plan for your future & start with small steps, one day at a time ♥ remind yourself of all the things you can be grateful for in your life

REDUCE LONELINESS CHALLENGE YOUR CYNICISM ABOUT HUMAN NATURE ♥ yes, lots of people are selfish & not worth knowing ♥ but, if you assume all people are like that you are doomed to loneliness ♥ find people who have the qualities that you value ~ they are out there!

REDUCE LONELINESS FAILURE OF RELATIONSHIPS IS NO REASON FOR GIVING UP ♥ yes, a break-up can be awful & social rejection can be painful ♥ face it, we are not going to appeal to everyone & must learn to live with rejection ♥ keep looking for those people that have qualities which you value

REDUCE LONELINESS IMPROVE YOUR DATE-SEEKING SKILLS ♥ sit with people in the cafeteria instead of by yourself in a corner ♥ SMILE  and say “hi” to people that interest you ♥ practice opening lines in front of a mirror

REDUCE LONELINESS MAKE SOCIAL CONTACTS ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

join committees attend recreational activities go to church join social action groups such as community betterment or environmental ♥ help out at your local animal shelter ♥ go to drop-in centres

REDUCE LONELINESS BECOME A GOOD LISTENER ♥ ask people how they’re doing ♥ ask for their opinion about events & activities ♥ actually listen to what they say before you plan your response ♥ tolerate different opinions – no two people will have identical perspectives

REDUCE LONELINESS REMEMBER THAT YOU ARE WORTHY OF FRIENDS ♥ yup, warts & all, you can be a good friend ♥ none of us is perfect (or even close to it) ♥ we are all unique & you may connect with more people than you imagine ♥ give people a chance!

INTIMACY ♥ involves feelings of emotional closeness & connectedness with another person ♥ desire to share each other’s innermost thoughts & feelings ♥ mutual trust, caring & acceptance ♥ does not have to be sexual (ex. friends, family that you are very close to)

INTIMACY REQUIRES: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

knowing & liking yourself trusting & caring being honest making a commitment maintaining individuality communicating

INTIMACY KNOWING & LIKING YOURSELF: ♥ coming to know & value yourself is important to build intimacy with others ♥ know your innermost needs & feelings ♥ develop the security to share those feelings

INTIMACY TRUSTING & CARING: ♥ with trust comes feelings of security to disclose information & feelings ♥ trust builds gradually as partners learn whether or not it is safe to share ♥ caring is an emotional bond ♥ involves meeting each other’s needs

INTIMACY BEING HONEST: ♥ involves sharing freely & openly ♥ does not mean partners must tell each other everything, but there is a healthy balance of revealing information ♥ total honesty can be devastating to a relationship, especially when it comes to past relationships or criticism

INTIMACY MAKING A COMMITMENT: ♥ requires commitment to maintain the relationship through good times & bad ♥ does not mean that the relationship must be lifelong ♥ the couple commits to work together to overcome problems instead of running at the first sign of trouble

INTIMACY MAINTAINING INDIVIDUALITY: ♥ when the I becomes we ♥ neither partner should take on the personality of the other person ♥ each partner should maintain their interests, goals, needs, likes & dislikes

INTIMACY COMMUNICATING: ♥ good communication means sending & receiving messages with your partner ♥ requires good listening & clear speaking ♥ is not always verbal

COMMUNICATION PROBLEMS: ♥ speaker may use words differently than the listener, leading to misunderstanding ♥ speaker’s words may not match his or her tone of voice, facial expression, or body gestures ♥ speaker may not be able to put into words what he or she truly means or feels

COMMUNICATION NONVERBAL: ♥ feelings are also expressed through tone of voice, gestures, body posture & facial expressions ♥ touching the arm, gazing into the eyes, hugging, holding, speaking softly or speaking forcefully

COMMUNICATION ACTIVE LISTENING: ♥ first, adopt the attitude that you might actually learn something! ♥ when the other person is speaking, show that you understand their ideas & feelings ask questions to help clarify ♥ try to grasp the meaning the speaker’s words instead of planning your next line

COMMUNICATION PROVIDING INFORMATION: ♥ your partner cannot read your mind! ♥ take the opportunity to tell your partner that s/he has done something right ♥ when giving criticism, focus on the problem without causing guilt or fear ♥ do not give ultimatums unless you’ll follow through with it

SEXUAL ORIENTATION & ATYPICAL BEHAVIOR

SEXUAL ORIENTATION  the direction of one’s sexual interests  can be toward members of the same gender, opposite gender or both genders

SEXUAL ORIENTATION HETEROSEXUAL

 attraction & preference for romantic relationships with other gender HOMOSEXUAL

 attraction & preference for romantic relationships with same gender

SEXUAL ORIENTATION BISEXUAL  attraction & interest for romantic relationships with both genders DID YOU KNOW…  sexual feelings involving people of one’s own gender are common in adolescence & do not mean that one will be gay in adulthood?

SEXUAL ORIENTATION KINSEY SCALE  a 7-point heterosexual-homosexual scale that classifies people according to their homosexual behavior & the magnitude of their attraction to members of their own gender  category 0 = exclusively heterosexual  category 6 = exclusively homosexual

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 HOMOSEXUAL

HETROSEXUAL

KINSEY SCALE 0= exclusively heterosexual 1= heterosexual, 1-2 homosexual experiences 2= mostly heterosexual, some homosexual 3= bisexual (equal) 4= mostly homosexual, some heterosexual 5= homosexual, 1-2 heterosexual experiences 6= exclusively homosexual Looks only at BEHAVIOR, not at FEELINGS, DESIRE or FANTASY

ATTITUDES 

one U.S. survey found that of males aged 15 – 19, 90% of them felt that sex between gay men was “disgusting”  60% would not even consider being friends with a gay man  in 2000, 9 out of 10 Canadians believed there should be equal job opportunities for homosexuals  yet, only 4 out of 10 support gay marriages

GENETICS     

there is evidence that gay sexual orientation runs in families biological & psychological factors also influence if one identical twin is gay, there is a 50 - 65% chance that the other twin is also gay compared to 22% of fraternal situations autopsies found that a segment of the brain’s hypothalamus was less than half the size of a heterosexual

ATYPICAL BEHAVIOR 

sexual behaviors which are unusual or abnormal



sexual arousal involving a preference for nongenital sexual outlets



patterns of sexual behavior or arousal that appear problematic in the eyes of the individual or society are called paraphilias

PARAPHILIAS 

involve sexual arousal in response to unusual stimuli, such as children, nonconsenting persons, nonhuman objects, or pain & humiliation



are diagnosed when sexual fantasies, urges or behaviors cause significant distress or interfere with a person’s ability to function in everyday tasks

PARAPHILIAS include:  Fetishism  Partialism  Transvestism  Exhibitionism  Voyeurism  Frotteurism

 Sadism  Masochism  Zoophilia  Necrophilia  Nymphomania  Satyriasis

FETISHISM •

when sexual arousal is caused by an inanimate object      

rubber leather silk high-heeled shoes panties ???

PARTIALISM •

related to fetishism; exaggerated sexual arousal to a particular body part    

feet buttocks breasts ???

TRANSVESTISM •

when a person repeatedly crossdresses for sexual arousal or is bothered by recurring urges to crossdress    

most keep it a secret ranges from one garment to many almost always male most are married

EXHIBITIONISM •

persistent, powerful urges & sexual fantasies involving exposing one’s genitals to unsuspecting strangers for sexual arousal of oneself    

“flashing” almost always male usually begins between ages 13-16 most are not a physical threat

VOYEURISM •

strong, repetitive urges to watch unsuspecting strangers who are naked, undressing or having sex

    

almost always male may masturbate during or after usually begins before age 15 not usually violent many lack social & sexual skills

FROTTEURISM •

recurring, powerful urges to rub against or touch a nonconsenting person

   

“mashing” almost always male buses, subways, elevators, concerts… many women do not realize it has occurred

OTHERS… SADISM • the desire or need to inflict pain or humiliation on others for sexual arousal

MASOCHISM • the desire or need for pain or humiliation to be inflicted on oneself for sexual arousal TOGETHER, IT IS TERMED S&M

OTHERS… ZOOPHILIA • repeated sexual urges & fantasies involving sexual contact with animals • men → farm animals • women → household pets NECROPHILIA • the desire for sexual activity with corpses

OTHERS… NYMPHOMANIA • an excessive sex drive or sexual appetite in women that is insatiable

SATYRIASIS • an excessive sex drive or sexual appetite in men that is insatiable

CONCEPTION PREGNANCY & CHILDBIRTH

CONCEPTION  the union of a sperm & an egg which normally occurs in a fallopian tube  only 1 in 1000 sperm will reach the egg • gravity • vaginal acidity • swimming against the current • wrong tube • cilia barrier

CONCEPTION  about 2000 sperm get to the right tube  sperm secretes an enzyme which thins the outer layer of the egg, allowing sperm to penetrate easier  once a sperm enters the egg, this outer layer thickens, stopping other sperm from entering the egg

PREGNANCY  missed period is not always the first sign  human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) as early as 8th day of pregnancy with blood test, 3rd week with urine test  about one month after a missed period a pelvic exam may show Hegar’s sign (softness in the uterus)

PREGNANCY  about ½ of women experience “morning sickness”, which occurs throughout the day  miscarriage can have many causes & about ¾ occur within the first 16 weeks  normal gestation period is 280 days ~ find the date of the first day of the last menstrual period & add nine months

PREGNANCY PRENATAL DEVELOPMENT  Germinal Stage - about the first 2 weeks  Embryonic Stage - about the first 2 months  Fetal Stage - until birth

PREGNANCY Germinal Stage     

within 36 hours of conception, the cell divides divides repeatedly on way to uterus (3-4 days) wanders about the uterus (another 3-4 days) implants in the uterine wall (about 7 days) cells begin to group off & will eventually become different structures

PREGNANCY Embryonic Stage  from implantation to about 8th week  major organ systems begin to develop  development occurs from the head downward & from the centre (spinal cord, organs) outward  3rd week, head & blood vessels begin to form  4th week, primitive heart begins to pump & arm & leg buds appear

PREGNANCY Embryonic Stage  AMNITOTIC SAC – surrounded by a clear membrane which contains amniotic fluid to cushion the embryo from movement & maintains a steady temperature

 PLACENTA – allows exchange of nutrients & waste between the mother & fetus then leaves the mother’s body after delivery (“afterbirth”)

PREGNANCY Fetal Stage  begins by the 9th week & continues to birth  by end of 1st trimester, sex can be determined visually, major organ systems, fingers, toes & genitalia have all been formed  mid-4th month, first fetal movements  age of viability = near end of 2nd trimester  7th month, fetus turns upside down

PREGNANCY Environmental Influences  DIET – malnourished pregnant women during the 3rd trimester is linked to low birth weight  TERATOGENS – agents that can damage an embryo or fetus (ex: narcotics, nicotine, alcohol, aspirin, lead, mercury, radiation, bacteria, viruses, measles, syphilis, chicken pox, …)

CHILDBIRTH  a day or so before labor begins, there may be a discharge of bloody mucus  1 in 10 women will have their “water break” as the amniotic sac bursts  other signs of labor: indigestion, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, backache  labor begins with onset of regular contractions

THREE STAGES First Stage:

- cervix thins & widens, causing most of the pain - may last a couple of hours or over a day - contractions become more frequent & strong - baby’s head begins to move into the vagina

THREE STAGES Second Stage:

- begins when cervix is fully dilated & baby begins to move into the vagina - woman is taken to delivery room - lasts a few minutes to a few hours - “crowning” = when the head is visible - ends with the birth of the baby

THREE STAGES Third Stage:

- lasts from a few minutes to over an hour - begins with the placenta being expelled - placenta detaches from wall of uterus - physician sew up tears or episiotomy (small incision to prevent tearing during childbirth)

METHODS NATURAL • women use no anesthesia GENERAL ANESTHESIA • drugs to put people to sleep & eliminate pain LOCAL ANESTHESIA • eliminates pain in a certain area of the body

METHODS LAMAZE • women learn to relax & to breathe in patterns that save energy & lesson pain CESAREAN SECTION • fetus is delivered through a cut in the abdomen • used when normal delivery difficult or threatens the health of mom or baby • 15% is “medically appropriate” (W.H.O)

POSTPARTUM • “following birth” • during the days & weeks that follow childbirth, 50-80% of mothers will feel sad, irritable, depressed &/or tearful • “Postpartum Depression” = persistent & severe mood changes (15% of new mothers) • includes psychological factors such as previous depression, stress, troubled marriage…

FEEDING Breast versus Bottle? • 70% of women breast-feed for at least the first three months • mothers who are older, married, more educated & living in Western Canada or Ontario are more likely to breast-feed • breast-feeding reduces risk of infections to baby & reduces allergies in babies • no other significant differences – you decide

BIRTH CONTROL

BIRTH CONTROL • 1882 – illegal to sell or advertise birth control in Canada • 1930’s – economic depression led to desire to have small families & birth control became available to married women only • 1950’s – condoms available in drug stores but only as “prevention of contagious disease” • 1960’s – sexual revolution & contraceptive pill becomes available in Canada

METHODS ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES • “the pill” consisting of sex hormones • combination pill contains man-made estrogen & progesterone • minipill contains man-made progesterone, but no estrogen • effectiveness = 99.5% with perfect use, 97% with typical use

METHODS COMBINATION PILL • taken for 21 days, then no pill or placebo • fools brain into thinking the body is already pregnant so no eggs mature or are released MINIPILL • taken every day • mucus in cervix thickens, therefore sperm is less mobile & inner lining of uterus is less receptive to a fertilized egg

METHODS “MORNING AFTER” PILL • have high doses of estrogen & progesterone • most effective when taken within 72 hours • long-term health effects are not known INTRAUTERINE DEVICES (IUDs) • small objects of various shapes inserted into the uterus by a doctor or nurse • usually left for 1-7 years, depending on brand • irritates uterine lining, toxic to sperm / egg

METHODS DIAPHRAGM • rubber cap or dome fitted to vagina and coated with spermicide • inserted prior to sex as a barrier to sperm SPERMICIDES • chemicals that kill sperm • in form of jelly, foam, cream, gel, suppository • typical use = 21% failure in first year

METHODS CONDOMS • made of animal membrane or latex • barrier to sperm entering vagina • can help prevent the spread of AIDS virus & other STDs • only contraceptive device worn by men • only latex are effective against AIDS virus • not all STDs are protected against • and remember, pre-cum contains sperm!

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS

INFO • EDMONTON STD CENTRE – 413-5156 11111 JASPER AVENUE (GENERAL HOSPITAL) • CALGARY STD CLINIC – 297-6562 • TOLL FREE – 1-800-772-2437

PREVENTION • only sure way is to avoid sex • have only one partner (who is STD free & has no other partners) • use condoms & other protection during sex • enjoy risk-free activities (hugging, massage…) • do not have casual partners • do not share IV drug equipment

CAUSES • caused by germs or organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi & parasites • germs need a warm, dark, moist area to live & grow such as in the genital area • spread from person to person during sexual intimacy (usually vaginal, anal or oral sex)

• most STI can be cured, many cannot

SYMPTOMS • many people DO NOT develop any symptoms when they get a STI • they can still be affected & infect others • some general symptoms include: - unusual discharge - burning pain when urinating - itching & burning in genital area - appearance of sores around genitals

TYPES  bacterial

 vaginal  viral  parasitic

BACTERIAL one-celled microorganisms that cause many diseases such as pneumonia, TB, meningitis and:

 CHLAMYDIA  GONORRHEA  SYPHILIS

CHLAMYDIA  the most common bacterial STI in Canada  more than 40,000 new cases a year  especially high among Canadians aged 15-24  transmitted through vaginal or anal sex  oral sex can infect the throat  infants can be infected at birth from an infected mother (even by C-section)

CHLAMYDIA SYMPTOMS:  men  clear mucous discharge from penis at 1-3 weeks after contact  discomfort or burning sensation in urethra  50% of males might not develop any symptoms at all

CHLAMYDIA SYMPTOMS:  women  unusual vaginal discharge  irregular menstrual bleeding  discomfort during intercourse  80% of females might not develop any symptoms at all

CHLAMYDIA COMPLICATIONS:

 left untreated, can infect ovaries & fallopian tubes, causing pelvic inflammatory disease  can develop infections in prostate gland & testicles  babies born to infected women can develop eye infections or lung problems

CHLAMYDIA DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT:  uses the “Abbott Testpack”  women – cervical smear (similar to Pap smear)  men – extract fluid using a swab inserted into the opening of the penis  treated with antibiotics (other than penicillin)  partners without symptoms must also be treated to prevent further infection

GONORRHEA  the second most commonly reported bacterial STI in Canada  more than 4500 new cases a year  especially high among Canadian women aged 15-24  bacterial die outside the body in one minute  transmitted through vaginal, oral or anal sex, or from mother to newborn  oral sex can infect the throat

GONORRHEA SYMPTOMS:  men  discharge of pus from penis within a week  mild to severe burning while urinating  20% of males might not develop any symptoms at all

GONORRHEA SYMPTOMS:  women  unusual vaginal discharge  pain during urination  80% of females might not develop any symptoms at all

GONORRHEA COMPLICATIONS:  left untreated, can infect ovaries & fallopian tubes, causing pelvic inflammatory disease  internal scarring & blockage of fallopian tube can cause sterility, tubal pregnancy or pain  can develop infection & pain in testicles  babies born to infected women can develop eye infections & even blindness

GONORRHEA DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT:  clinical inspection & culture of discharge  often occurs together with chlamydia & is often treated together with antibiotics  partners without symptoms should also receive antibiotic treatment

SYPHILIS  was declining until recently in Canada  may increase transmission of HIV  transmitted through direct contact with a rash or sore during sex  if not treated, can have very serious consequences  can be passed on to an unborn child

SYPHILIS SYMPTOMS:  same for men & women  occurs in three stages  First Stage:  in 9-90 days, a painless chancre occurs at site of infection (up to the size of a quarter)  chancre will heal within 2-4 weeks but the disease is still active & infectious

SYPHILIS SYMPTOMS:  Second Stage:  lasts 2-6 weeks, after chancre appearance  occurs 2-6 months after initial contact  rash (resembling measles, or heat rash) breaks out anywhere on body, even hands & feet  loss of appetite, fever, tiredness, hair loss  even when symptoms disappear, remains very contagious at this stage

SYPHILIS SYMPTOMS:  Third Stage:  lasts from 2-40 years  even without obvious signs, the germs continue to damage vital organs  can cause blindness, deafness, paralysis, brain & heart disease

SYPHILIS DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT:

   

a blood test detects presence of antibodies treated with penicillin or other antibiotics can be cured at any stage earlier treatment reduces risk of serious complications

TYPES  bacterial

 vaginal  viral  parasitic

VAGINAL any kind of vaginal infection or inflammation mostly caused by vaginal organisms or sexually transmitted infections:  BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS

 CANDIDIASIS  TRICHOMONIASIS

BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS (BV)    

very common caused by bacteria transmitted sexually is an imbalance or overgrowth of bacteria can be found in the male urethra but no symptoms usually found  no evidence of benefit for treatment of the male

BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS (BV) SYMPTOMS IN FEMALE:  thin, watery discharge, gray in color  “fishy” smell DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT:  examination & tests using microscope  oral medication or vaginal cream

CANDIDIASIS    

“yeast infection”, “thrush” caused by a fungus called Candida overgrowth of yeast (often in healthy women) can be caused by: - birth control pills - tight clothing - colored toilet paper (chemicals used to color) - diabetes - scented feminine hygiene products

CANDIDIASIS SYMPTOMS:  curdy, white vaginal discharge  itching, redness in genital area

DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT:  examination, swab test & use of microscope  treated with vaginal creams, vaginal suppositories or oral medication

TRICHOMONIASIS  “trick”, caused by a one-celled animal  #1 STI in the world, but not in Canada  acquired during sexual intercourse with an infected partner  parasite may survive several hours outside the body (discharge on bedding, towels…)  can be picked up from a toilet seat if direct contact is made

TRICHOMONIASIS SYMPTOMS:  usually occur 1-3 weeks after contact  females – foul smelling, greenish or yellowish discharge & itching  males – usually no symptoms, but sometimes a slight urethral discharge or burning DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT:  examination, swab test & microscope  treated with oral medication or vaginal cream

TYPES  bacterial

 vaginal  viral  parasitic

VIRAL tiny particles of DNA that invade a cell body & cause it to spread the virus:  AIDS  HERPES  VIRAL HEPATITIS

 GENITAL WARTS

AIDS  Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)  HIV attacks & disables the immune system  person is susceptible to infection, cancer, …  termed AIDS when system is beyond repair  worldwide – 40 million people infected (2.5 million are children under 15)(2003)  Canada – 56, 000 people infected (2002)

AIDS SYMPTOMS:  may be no symptoms  2-4 weeks after infection – flu-like symptoms  within 6 months of infection, blood test +ve  eventually: weight loss, fatigue, night sweats, dry cough, diarrhea, swollen lymph glands, memory loss, confusion, depression, certain cancers

AIDS DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT:  blood test for HIV antibodies  95% of test will be +ve after 3 months  full window period is 6 months  test is free & confidential at STD clinic  no vaccine to prevent HIV & no cure  variety of meds can improve health & increase life expectancy

HERPES  once you get it, it’s yours for life!  two types of viruses: - herpes simplex type 1 – oral herpes - herpes simplex type 2 – genital herpes  oral = cold sores & blisters on lips & mouth  genital = sores & blisters on genitals  type 1 can occur on genitals & type 2 can occur on the mouth  both can be passed with direct skin contact  can be passed even if there’s no signs or sores

HERPES SYMPTOMS:  usually occur within 1-3 weeks of infection; can be months or never  may begin with a tingling or burning sensation  fluid-filled blisters appear & soon break  open sores remain on the skin 2-4 weeks  female - vulva, anal opening, vaginal walls  male - penis, scrotum, anal opening  initial outbreak may be accompanied by: headache, fever, swollen glands, flu feeling

HERPES DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT & INFO:  examination & swab test to detect  after sores heal, virus becomes dormant but is still contagious  protection is important at all times  can be triggered by stress, menstruation, sexual activity, sunlight & fever  can be passed to newborn during delivery  NO CURE, but medication can quicken healing

HEPATITIS  inflammation of the liver  Hep A – contact with infected fecal matter (contaminated food from not washing hands, oral-anal sexual activity)  Hep B, C, D - contact with infected saliva, blood (including menstrual), mucus or semen through anal, vaginal & oral sex, sharing needles, razors, toothbrushes…

HEPATITIS Hep C in Canada – 2000 cases per year Hep A & B – 1000 cases each per year Hep D – only occurs in presence of Hep B very low risk of contracting Hepatitis through blood transfusion because of tight testing  cannot be spread by casual contact (hugging, shaking hands)    

HEPATITIS SYMPTOMS:  may be no symptoms  usually develop slowly, 6-20 weeks after exposure to the virus  Hep B symptoms tend to be more severe & longer lasting  includes: jaundice, weakness, nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, whitish bowel movements, vomiting, brownish urine

HEPATITIS DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT:  detected by blood test  no cure for viral hepatitis  90% of people with Hep B will develop immunity without treatment  10 % will develop cirrhosis or cancer of liver  plenty of rest & fluids are important  vaccination available for Hep B & Hep D  NO vaccine for Hep A or Hep C

GENITAL WARTS  caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV)  HPV itself is harmless but can lead to cancers in genital organs, particularly cervical or penile cancer  20-33% of sexually active Canadian women are infected  women are more susceptible because of rapid cell division in cervix

GENITAL WARTS SYMPTOMS:  may never be any symptoms  may appear within weeks or months  itchy bumps that vary in shape & size  flesh colored growths appearing on or near the genital & anal area  on dry skin – hard & yellow-gray color  moist areas – soft, pink, cauliflower shape

GENITAL WARTS SYMPTOMS:  males – usually on head & shaft of penis, anal area or scrotum  females – usually on external genitals, anal area or inside vagina & cervix  some people do not know they have it  often appear for the first time during pregnancy

GENITAL WARTS DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT:  visual examination using magnifier  Pap test for females (also screens for cancer)  must be treated by a doctor  various treatments include: - cryotherapy (freezing it with liquid nitrogen) - chemicals or creams applied to surface of wart - electric current or laser therapy to destroy it - surgical removal

TYPES  bacterial

 vaginal  viral  parasitic

PARASITIC tiny parasites that live in or out of the body ectoparasites live on the outer surface:  pubic lice (“crabs”)  scabies

PUBIC LICE        

tiny insects living on or near pubic hair size of a pinhead range in color from gray to reddish brown may also be in hair of thigh, chest or underarm adult crabs lay eggs (nits) on hair usually cannot be pulled or washed off can live away from body for up to 2 days can spread through body contact, bedding, towels, clothing…

PUBIC LICE SYMPTOMS:  can be seen with naked eye  area becomes itchy from bites on skin  specks of blood may appear from bites  may have crabs 2-3 weeks before noticing  will not result in serious complications

PUBIC LICE TREATMENT:

 specific lotions or shampoos are required & available without prescription  follow instructions for use carefully  all recently used bedding, towels, clothing must be washed in HOT SOAPY water  mattresses should be vacuumed & disinfected  will frequently recur if not carefully treated

SCABIES  very contagious skin condition caused by an almost invisible insect  burrows under the skin to lay eggs  transmitted through sexual contact or from infected bedding, clothing, towels…  often found on hands, wrists, feet, genital areas, buttocks & armpits

SCABIES SYMPTOMS:  itching (more at night)  red bumps, streaks or lines on skin surface  may appear as a rash, sores, welts or blisters

SCABIES DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT:  must be diagnosed by a doctor (rashes can occur for a variety of reasons)  small scraping of skin must be examined under microscope to identify mites (too tiny to see with the naked eye)  treat with medicated lotions (follow directions)  wash all clothing, bedding & towels with HOT SOAPY water

SEXUAL ASSAULT & COERCION

What is Sexual Assault? • Any form of sexual contact without voluntary consent • Can range from unwanted sexual touching to sexual violence resulting in serious physical injury • Often referred to as rape • Are assigned levels depending on the seriousness of the assault

Levels of Sexual Assault • Level 1 Sexual Assault • Involves no physical injury or minor physical injury • Maximum sentence of 10 years

• Level 2 Sexual Assault with a weapon, threats to a third party or causing bodily harm. • Maximum sentence of 14 years

• Level 3 Aggravated sexual assault • Involves wounding, maiming, disfigurement, or endangering the victim’s life • Maximum sentence of life

Incidence Rates • 25 493 sexual assaults reported to the police (1998) • About 1 every 15 minutes • 97% of the reported cases were level 1 • A national random telephone sample reported twice as many sexual assaults, many are simply unreported

Statistics Canada 1998 • 85% of the victims of sexual assault were female • 60% of the victims were under the age of 18 • Male victims were even younger, averaging age 11.

Types of Sexual Assault • • • • • •

Stranger sexual assault Acquaintance sexual assault Multiple perpetrators (gang rapes) Sexual assault of men Spousal sexual assault Sexual assault by women

Stranger Sexual Assault • Committed by someone previously unknown • Often select victims who are vulnerable • Live alone, older or retarded, walking down deserted streets, asleep or intoxicated.

• Often try to find a safe place and time to commit the assault • 3% of women over the age of 18 have been assaulted by a stranger • Women between the ages of 18 – 44 years were the most likely to be attacked • Most assaults took place in public places • Street, bars or clubs, or in public buildings

Acquaintance Sexual Assault • Victims are more likely to be assaulted by someone they know • Classmates, co-workers, family friends, etc.

• Often do not perceive what happened as sexual assault • Can happen in a dating situation • This most often involves intercourse

• More likely to occur when the couple have had too much to drink

Multiple Perpetrators • Men who participate in group sexual assaults are trying to conform to the stereotype of the tough, competent, “masculine” he-man • Exercise of power is a major motive although some may also be expressing anger against women • Often each gang member may become more aggressive as he takes his turn.

Sexual Assault of Men • Prevalence is unknown • Estimates of 1 in 10 victims • More likely to be committed by strangers, usually heterosexual men • Motives include domination and control, revenge and retaliation, and gang status and affiliation

Spousal Sexual Assault • 8% of women reported being sexually assaulted by their partner • Most often goes unreported • Motives vary, but include sex to dominate their partner, degrade their partner, within the context of marital violence, or the solution to all marital disputes • Survivors are often fearful of serious injury or death.

Sexual Assault by Women • Rare • Often involves aiding or abetting men who are attacking another woman • May occur in gang attacks • Often aid in luring a woman into a safe place for sexual assault or may hold the woman down while the assault occurs • Women can also sexually assault men • May help in the sexual assault of men as well

Social Attitudes and Myths • “women say no when they mean yes” • “all women like a man who is pushy and forceful” • “the way women dress, they are just asking to be raped” • “rapists are crazed by sexual desire” • “women want to be forced to have sex”

Social Attitudes and Myths • Create a social climate that legitimizes sexual assault • Both men and women are suseptible • Are related to other social attitudes • gender-role stereotyping, • the perception of sex as adversarial • the acceptance of violence in interpersonal relationships

Psychological Characteristics of Sex Offenders • No single type of sex offender • Majority of sex offenders are in control of their behaviour, and know that it is illegal. • Median age of sex offenders was 32 (1999) • Generally have less than a grade 12 education • Often report feeling socially inadequate

Sex Offenders • Are more likely than other men to: • • • • •

Condone sexual assault and violence against women Hold traditional gender-role attitudes Be sexually experienced Be hostile toward women Engage in sexual activity in order to express social dominance • Be sexually aroused by depictions of sexual assault • Be irresponsible and lack a social conscience • Have peer groups, such as fraternities, that pressure them into sexual activity

Motives for Sexual Assault •

Three Basic Motives: 1. Anger 2. Power 3. Sadistic

Anger Motive • Vicious, unplanned attack • Triggered by anger and resentment toward women • Usually employ more force than is needed to obtain compliance • Victim is often forced into performing degrading and humiliating acts • Fellatio or anal intercourse

• Perpetrator reports suffering humiliations at the hands of women and used assault as revenge.

Power Motive • Desire to control and dominate women is primary motive • Sexual gratification is secondary motive • Is an attempt to “resolve disturbing doubts about his masculine identity and worth, or to combat deep-seated feelings of insecurity and vulnerability” • Only enough force to subdue the woman is used

Sadistic Motive • Ritualized and savage attack • Carefully plan their assaults and use a pretext to approach their targets, such as asking directions or offering/requesting assistance • Some bind, torture, or murder their victims. • Mutilation of victims is common. • Often preoccupied with violent pornography • Motivated by anger, power, or sadistic urges.

If you are Sexually Assaulted… • Don’t change anything about your body • Don’t wash or even comb your hair

• Strongly consider reporting the incident to police • You may prevent another woman from being assaulted

• Ask a relative or friend to take you to a hospital if you can’t get an ambulance or police car • Seek help in an assertive way • Injuries you are unaware of my be detected. Insist on a written or photographic record be made documenting the condition

• Question health professionals • Ask about your biological risks • Ask what treatments are available • Ask for whatever help will make you comfortable

Reducing the Risk of Sexual Assault • Establish a set of signals with other women in the building or neighbourhood • List yourself in the phone directory and mailbox by first initials only • Use dead-bolt locks • Lock windows and install iron grids on first-floor windows • Keep doorways and entries well lit • Keep your keys handy when approaching the car or the front door

Reducing the Risk of Sexual Assault • Do not walk by yourself after dark • Avoid deserted areas • Do not allow strange men into your house or apartment without first checking their credentials • Keep your car doors locked and windows up • Check out the back seat of your car before entering • Don’t live in a risky building • Don’t give rides to hitchhikers • Don’t converse with strange men on the street • Shout “FIRE!” not “RAPE!”

Adjustment for Survivors of Sexual Assault • Many survivors are extremely distraught for days • Often report eating disorders, headaches, irritability, mood changes, anxiety, depression, menstrual irregularity. • May become withdrawn, sullen, and mistrustful • Some may experience guilt or shame if they feel partially to blame for the assault.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder • An anxiety disorder brought on by exposure to a traumatic event • Often includes flashbacks, disturbing dreams, emotional numbing, nervousness • May persist for years

Rape Trauma Syndrome • For several weeks after the attack, people behave in a disorganized manner • May cry uncontrollably, experience feelings of anger, shame, fear, and nervousness • Most people benefit from counseling • Long-term adjustment involves coming to terms with feelings and being able to remember the event without re-experiencing it.

Sexual Abuse of Children • May range from exhibitionism, kissing, fondling, sexual touching, oral sex and anal or vaginal intercourse • Any sexual contact between an adult and child is considered abusive because the child is below age of consent • Voluntary sexual activity between children of similar ages is not sexual abuse

Patterns of Abuse • 4 out of 5 children are abuse by relatives or family friends or acquaintances • Average age of abuse is between 6-12 years old for girls, 7-10 years old for boys • Genital fondling is the most common type of abuse • Abused children rarely report the abuse • Estimated that 90% of cases are not reported.

Effects of Child Sexual Abuse • Short and long-term effects include anger, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, inappropriate sexual behaviour, self-destructive behaviour, sexual promiscuity, drug abuse, suicide attempts, PTSD, low self-esteem, sexual dysfunction, mistrust of others, feelings of detachment

Effects of Child Sexual Abuse • Abused children commonly act out • Late adolescence and early adulthood seem to pose especially difficult periods for survivors • Effects are often long-lasting

Preventing Child Sexual Abuse • Prevention programs • Teach children to understand what sexual abuse is and how they can avoid it • Teach children to recognize “good” and “bad” touching

• Encourage the child to talk about it • Teach children messages like “It’s not your fault”, etc.

• Remind the child they and their families will be safe • Threats are often used to get the child not to tell anyone about the abuse.

• ADULTS ARE LEGALLY OBLIGATED TO REPORT SUSPECTED ABUSE TO AUTHORITIES

Sexual Harassment • Any sexually oriented conduct – physical, verbal, or by innuendo – that is a condition of employment, interferes with job performance, or creates a hostile or offensive work environment. • Can be committed by men or women

Sexual Harassment • May have more to do with the abuse of power than with sexual desire • The harasser is often in a dominant position and abuses that position by exploiting the victim’s vulnerability.

Resisting Sexual Harassment Familiarize yourself with your employer’s policy on sexual harassment 2. Convey a professional attitude 3. Discourage harassing behaviour, and encourage appropriate behaviour 4. Avoid being alone with the harasser 5. Maintain a record 6. Talk with the harasser 7. Write a letter to the harasser 8. Seek support 9. File a complaint 10. Seek legal remedies 1.

Where can you get help? Planned Parenthood Edmonton #50 9912-106 St …………..(780) 423-3737 • Pregnancy tests and pregnancy options (prochoice) • Referrals to health care services • Doctors, counseling, contraception, fertility, parenting programs, pregnancy resources for men and women

• Phone line to answer any questions about sex you have!

Where can you get help? Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton #205 14964-121A Ave 24 hour crisis line: (780) 423-4121 Business line: (780) 423-4102 • • • • •

Free public education 24 hour crisis line Crisis intervention Short-term counseling Numerous support groups for adults, youth, and children

Where can you get help? Child Abuse Hot Line ……1-800-387-5437 • To report suspected cases of child abuse Can also call the police or child welfare to report suspected cases of child abuse (physical, emotional or sexual)

Where can you get help? If you don’t know or can’t remember where to go… • Call Capital Health Link (780) 408-LINK(5465) • For sexual assaults or suspected child abuse call the police: (780) 423-2567 • In here? Talk to your caseworker, psychology, or a guard. Information is always available, just ask!

The End